Egg production is reduced by endoparasitism, but not by ectoparasitism

What is it about?

We tested whether egg production of the northern damselfly (Coenagrion hastulatum) females is affected by endo- and ectoparasites, immune response, wing length or by population. We found that: - females were able to produce fewer eggs if they had endoparasites. - egg numbers were not affected by ectoparasite numbers, wing length, the strength of the immune response or the population. - females that had more ectoparasites, had also a stronger immune response. - the number of eggs was negatively associated with immune response. Our results indicate that endoparasitic gregarines affect negatively on the reproduction capability of female damselflies. This may have a profound effect on the population dynamics and further highlights the need to study host-parasite interactions.

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Why is it important?

This study answers the demand to study host-parasite relationship in insects, especially focusing on females and their ability to produce eggs.